Clara K. DeShaw passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 28, 2007. She was born Sept. 4, 1928, in Fairview to Elmer Harry "Bill" and Mary Irene Norton. The family later moved to Outlook, where her parents ranched, then to Sidney where Clara graduated from high school.

While in school she met the love of her life, William O. "Bill" DeShaw. They were married Sept. 4, 1946, on Clara's 18th birthday. Bill and Clara had three children, Sheila, Judy, and William O. "Billy" Jr.

Clara worked as a clerk at Jerry's Market until she and Bill fell in love with the mountains and moved west, settling in Willow Creek. Later the family moved to Three Forks, where Clara worked at the Headwaters Café.

While living in Willow Creek and Three Forks, Clara taught religious education after school. She was active in school functions, a member of the VFW Auxiliary and supported children at St. Jude's Hospital for many years.

The family moved to the Four Corners area near Bozeman in 1963. Clara worked hard to create the home of her dreams and she resided in that home until her death. She worked many places during her years in Bozeman, including Buttrey's, the Rockin' R, the Pine's Cafe, the Korner Club, the CM Lounge, Valley View Supper Club, the Hub, and Restvedt's Meat Market.

Clara enjoyed many activities including bowling, gardening, camping, wood gathering and fishing with her husband. She often took her son fishing and duck hunting when he was growing up. She loved spending time with her family and frequently hosted large family gatherings. She especially enjoyed camping and boating with her daughters and grandchildren.

You were always there for us, Mom, in so very many ways. We will miss your beautiful smile, your joyous laugh, and the unconditional love you gave to each of us. We will always love you.

Clara was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, William O. DeShaw; her parents, Elmer Harry "Bill" Norton and Mary I. Norton Kilen; her brother, William A Norton; and granddaughter, Cassandra K. Lambros.

She is survived by her daughters, Sheila (Brian) DeShaw, and Judy DeShaw; son, William O. (Fayle) DeShaw Jr.; her sister, Betty (Bill) Fischer; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. today, Tuesday, Oct. 30, at Dokken-Nelson Sunset Chapel.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942.